Macut: Reforms must be continued to activate EU Growth Plan funds

BELGRADE - Serbian PM Djuro Macut held a meeting with representatives of the relevant ministries to discuss implementation of activities from the Reform Agenda, aimed at accelerating economic development, strengthening institutions and bringing Serbia closer to European standards.

"Macut stated that the timely fulfilment of obligations from the Reform Agenda is necessary for the continuation of reform processes, economic growth and the activation of funds provided for by the European Union Growth Plan for the Western Balkans," a government statement said.

"The Prime Minister stated that additional efforts are needed in the areas of energy, internal affairs and justice, adding that it is important to ensure the efficient implementation of all upcoming activities.

He noted that Serbia is clearly committed to continuing its European path, and that the reform processes envisaged by the Reform Agenda are not mere administrative activities, but concrete measures that contribute to the modernisation of the state and directly affect the improvement of the daily lives of citizens," it said.

The representatives of the ministries "presented the status of activities within their purview, as well as the next steps in the implementation of the commitments undertaken."

"The meeting reviewed the results achieved to date and the progress made in implementing reforms in the areas of the rule of law, public administration, energy, transport infrastructure, education, science, innovation, digitalisation, economic development and environmental protection.

In particular, progress was highlighted in the implementation of measures related to improving the business environment and private sector development, the green and digital transitions, human capital development and strengthening the rule of law, as key areas covered by the Reform Agenda.

The interlocutors agreed that the relevant institutions will continue to work intensively on fulfilling the remaining obligations, so that Serbia can make further progress in achieving results in the process of implementing reforms and modernising society," it said.

The meeting was also attended by Ambassador Danijel Apostolovic, head of the Serbian Mission to the EU and chief negotiator in the EU accession talks, as well as by Deputy PM and Minister of Economy Adrijana Mesarovic, Justice Minister Nenad Vujic, Minister for European Integration Nemanja Starovic and the government's secretary-general, Petar Janjic.